A car accident in Arizona isn’t just a personal crisis; it’s a complex legal event governed by specific state laws. Rules like “comparative negligence” can reduce your settlement if you’re found even partially at fault, and a strict two-year deadline, the statute of limitations, can prevent you from ever filing a claim if you wait too long. Trying to handle this alone is a significant risk. An Arizona car accident lawyer understands these intricate rules and how to use them to protect your rights. This guide will break down these key laws and the entire legal process into simple, actionable steps, giving you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions from day one.
Key Takeaways
- Protect your claim from the start: Immediately after an accident, seek medical care to document your injuries, take photos of the scene, and collect witness information. These initial actions provide the essential evidence needed for a strong case.
- Partner with a car accident specialist: A lawyer focused on car accidents manages all communication with insurance companies, builds your case, and fights for fair compensation. Most work on a contingency fee, so you only pay if they win your case, removing any upfront financial risk.
- Know what your case is worth: Your settlement isn’t a random number; it’s calculated based on your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In Arizona, the final amount is also affected by the state’s comparative negligence rule, making it crucial to establish fault.
What Does an Arizona Car Accident Lawyer Do?
After a car accident, you’re likely dealing with injuries, medical bills, and a damaged vehicle. It’s a stressful and confusing time. An Arizona
Think of them as your dedicated representative, working to piece together what happened and prove who was at fault. They understand the tactics insurance adjusters use to minimize payouts and are prepared to counter them. By managing every detail of your claim, they work to secure a settlement that truly covers the physical, emotional, and financial impact of the accident.
The Services They Provide
A car accident lawyer provides comprehensive support from start to finish. Their first step is to thoroughly investigate the crash, gathering police reports, interviewing witnesses, and collecting medical records. They handle all the complex details of a car accident claim, including all communications with insurance companies, so you won’t be pressured into accepting a lowball offer. Your attorney will also accurately calculate your total damages—not just current medical bills, but future treatment costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay them unless they win your case. This allows you to get expert legal help without any upfront financial risk.
When Is the Right Time to Hire One?
The best time to hire a car accident lawyer is as soon as possible after the crash. The moments following an accident are critical for preserving evidence, and an attorney can immediately take steps to secure it before it disappears. It’s also important to have a lawyer on your side before you speak with the other party’s insurance adjuster. Adjusters are trained to ask questions that can weaken your claim, and having legal representation prevents you from making costly mistakes. An attorney can also address your common questions and concerns right away. While Arizona gives you two years to file a claim, building a strong case takes time, so acting quickly gives your lawyer the best opportunity to fight for you effectively.
How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost in Arizona?
After a car accident, the last thing you need is another financial worry. The thought of legal bills can be intimidating, but I have some good news. Most reputable personal injury lawyers in Arizona, including our team at AZ Law Now, handle cases on a contingency fee basis. This arrangement is designed to give you access to expert legal help without any upfront costs, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we focus on your case. It levels the playing field, ensuring that anyone can afford to seek justice against well-funded insurance companies.
How Contingency Fees Work
A contingency fee is straightforward: your lawyer only gets paid if you win your case. If you don’t receive a financial settlement or a favorable court verdict, you owe your attorney nothing for their time and effort. This structure means your lawyer is just as invested in a successful outcome as you are. The fee is a pre-agreed percentage of the total compensation recovered. Typically, this ranges from 30% to 40%. For example, if you receive a $50,000 settlement and your contingency fee is 33.3%, the attorney’s fee would be $16,650. This approach removes the financial risk of hiring a personal injury lawyer.
What Other Costs Should You Expect?
While the contingency fee covers your lawyer’s legal services, every case involves other expenses. These are the direct costs of building a strong claim and can include things like court filing fees, the cost of obtaining your medical records, fees for expert witnesses (like accident reconstructionists or medical specialists), and costs for depositions. Our firm typically advances these costs on your behalf, so you still don’t pay anything out of pocket. These case expenses are then deducted from your final settlement. It’s important to clarify in your initial consultation whether these costs are taken out before or after the attorney’s percentage is calculated. You can find answers to more common questions on our FAQ page.
What Factors Affect a Lawyer’s Fees?
The specific contingency fee percentage can vary based on a few key factors, primarily the complexity and stage of your case. A straightforward car accident claim that settles relatively quickly, before a lawsuit is even filed, will generally have a lower fee percentage, often around 33.3%. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement and your case requires filing a lawsuit, extensive litigation, or even going to trial, the fee may increase to around 40%. This reflects the significant increase in time, work, and resources required. A reputable attorney will always discuss these details with you upfront and outline them clearly in a written agreement, so there are never any surprises.
What Determines Your Settlement Amount?
After a car accident, one of the first questions on your mind is likely, “What is my case actually worth?” It’s a fair question, but the answer isn’t simple. There’s no magic calculator that spits out a number. Instead, your settlement amount is carefully built by piecing together all the ways the accident has impacted your life, from the obvious to the hidden. Think of it less as a single number and more as a detailed story of your losses. Each piece of evidence—every medical bill, every missed paycheck, every journal entry about your pain—adds a new chapter to that story.
The final figure is a combination of “economic” damages (the ones with clear price tags, like medical bills and property damage) and “non-economic” damages (the intangible but very real costs, like pain and suffering). An experienced attorney’s job is to find and document every single loss to ensure the settlement you receive is fair and truly covers what you’ve been through. While you might see articles online quoting “average” settlements, it’s best to ignore them. Your situation is unique, and your compensation should reflect your specific journey. Several key factors will ultimately shape your personal injury settlement, and understanding them is the first step toward getting the justice you deserve.
The Severity of Your Injuries and Medical Bills
The most significant factor in any settlement is the extent of your physical injuries. A minor fender-bender with a few weeks of chiropractic care will result in a very different settlement than a collision causing a permanent disability. Your compensation should cover all past, present, and future medical expenses. This includes everything from the initial ambulance ride and emergency room visit to surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any long-term care you might need. This is why it’s critical to keep meticulous records of every appointment and bill. An attorney will use this documentation to build a clear picture of the total medical cost of your car accident, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
Damage to Your Vehicle and Property
While your physical recovery is the top priority, the damage to your property is another key component of your claim. This most obviously includes the cost to repair your vehicle or, if it was totaled, its fair market value at the time of the crash. But don’t forget about other personal items that may have been damaged or destroyed. This could be anything from a laptop or cell phone to expensive sunglasses or a child’s car seat, which should always be replaced after an accident. While the property damage portion of a claim is often more straightforward to calculate than medical costs, it’s an essential piece of your overall financial recovery. You can find answers to common questions about this process in our FAQ.
Determining Fault (Arizona’s Comparative Negligence Rule)
In Arizona, who was at fault for the accident plays a huge role in your settlement. The state follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. In simple terms, this means your final compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if a jury decides your total damages are $100,000 but finds you were 20% responsible for the crash, your award would be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $80,000. Insurance companies for the other driver will often try to shift as much blame as possible onto you to reduce their payout. This is where having a skilled lawyer is crucial; they can fight back against unfair accusations and protect the value of your claim.
The Impact on Your Quality of Life
A settlement should cover more than just your bills. It must also account for the non-economic impact the accident has had on your life—often referred to as “pain and suffering.” This legal term covers a wide range of very real human experiences: the physical pain from your injuries, the emotional distress and anxiety that follows a traumatic event, and the loss of enjoyment you experience when you can no longer participate in hobbies or activities you once loved. While it’s impossible to put a dollar amount on these things, an experienced personal injury attorney knows how to demonstrate this suffering and argue for fair compensation that acknowledges the full, human cost of the accident.
Lost Wages and Future Earning Ability
If your injuries forced you to miss work, your settlement should include the income you lost. This is calculated based on your pay stubs and employment records. But what if your injuries are so severe that they affect your ability to work in the long term? Your settlement should also cover this “loss of future earning capacity.” For example, if a construction worker suffers a back injury and can no longer perform manual labor, their ability to earn a living is permanently impacted. An attorney can work with financial and vocational experts to project these future losses and ensure your settlement provides for your financial stability for years to come. If you’re worried about your financial future after a crash, contact us to discuss your options.
How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer for You
After a car accident, choosing a lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. You need an advocate who will fight for you, but with so many options, how do you find the right one? It comes down to asking the right questions and looking for a few key qualities. Focusing on experience, communication, reputation, and resources will help you find a legal partner you can trust to handle your case with the care and aggression it deserves.
Check Their Experience and Focus
Not all lawyers are the same. You wouldn’t see a foot doctor for a heart problem, and the same logic applies here. You need a lawyer with extensive experience settling and litigating car accident cases. A lawyer with a strong background in this specific area will be better equipped to handle the complexities of your claim. They will understand the tactics insurance companies use and know how to build a case that stands up to scrutiny. Ask potential attorneys what percentage of their practice is dedicated to car accident claims to ensure they have the specialized knowledge your case requires.
Assess Their Communication and Availability
Clear, consistent communication is the foundation of a good attorney-client relationship. During such a stressful time, the last thing you need is to be left in the dark. You deserve a personal injury lawyer who explains your case in plain terms, covering all aspects of the legal process without confusing jargon. During your initial consultation, ask how they’ll keep you updated and who your primary point of contact will be. A good lawyer will be accessible and responsive, making you feel like a priority, not just another case number. They should be ready to answer your questions and guide you through every step.
Read Client Reviews and Case Histories
A lawyer’s track record can tell you a lot. Before you commit, take some time to read online reviews and testimonials from former clients. Look for a lawyer who has successfully handled cases similar to yours. While every case is unique, a history of positive outcomes shows they have familiarity with Arizona’s car accident laws and insurance claim procedures. Check their website for case results, but also look at independent review sites to get a well-rounded picture. Learning about the firm and its history can give you confidence that you’re putting your trust in capable hands.
Look at the Firm’s Resources and Team
A single lawyer is one thing, but a well-supported legal team is another. Ensure the firm has the necessary resources and a competent team to support your case from start to finish. This includes paralegals, investigators, and access to expert witnesses who can help strengthen your claim. Specialized knowledge enables lawyers to handle the complexities of car accident cases effectively, and a strong team ensures no detail is overlooked. When you meet with a potential lawyer, ask about the team that will be working on your case. A firm that invests in its resources is invested in getting you the best possible result.
What to Expect from the Legal Process
The legal system can feel intimidating, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of an injury. But understanding the road ahead can make the journey much smoother. Think of it as a series of steps, each one bringing you closer to the resolution you deserve. Your attorney will be your guide through this entire process, handling the complexities so you can focus on your recovery. From the first phone call to the final settlement, here’s a straightforward look at what you can expect when you file a personal injury claim in Arizona.
The First Step: Your Initial Consultation
This is your first, and most important, conversation. It’s best to connect with a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident, and definitely before you speak with any insurance adjusters. During this initial meeting, which is typically free, you’ll share the details of what happened. This is your chance to ask questions and get a clear understanding of your rights and options. We’ll listen to your story, review any documents you have, and give you an honest assessment of your case. The goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in the path forward. You can schedule a consultation with our team to get started.
Building Your Case by Gathering Evidence
A strong case is built on solid evidence. After your consultation, our team gets to work immediately. We’ll start gathering all the necessary documents to establish who was at fault and the full extent of your damages. This includes police reports, witness statements, photos from the scene, and your medical records. While we handle the official legwork, the information you collected right after the car accident is also incredibly valuable. Every piece of evidence helps us paint a clear picture of the incident and strengthens our position when we fight for your compensation.
Filing the Claim and the Discovery Phase
Once we have a strong foundation of evidence, we will formally file your claim. This kicks off a phase called “discovery.” It sounds technical, but it just means that both sides exchange information about the case. The other party’s insurance company will review our evidence, and we will review theirs. During this time, it’s crucial to continue your medical treatment and keep detailed records of all your expenses, from medical bills to lost wages. It’s also wise to be careful with what you post on social media, as insurance companies often look for anything they can use to downplay your injuries.
Negotiating a Fair Settlement
Most personal injury cases are resolved through a settlement, not a trial. This is where your lawyer’s negotiation skills really shine. The insurance company’s goal is to pay out as little as possible. Our goal is to make sure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, pain, and suffering. We will handle all communications and negotiations with the insurer, presenting your case forcefully and countering their lowball offers. Our experienced team knows the tactics they use and will fight tirelessly to secure a fair settlement on your behalf.
Preparing for Trial if a Settlement Isn’t Reached
While we always aim for a fair settlement, sometimes the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable offer. If that happens, you need a legal team that isn’t afraid to take your case to court. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, so we are always ready to file a lawsuit and advocate for you before a judge and jury. Having a trial-ready attorney levels the playing field and sends a clear message that we will not back down. This readiness often convinces the other side to negotiate in good faith, but if not, we are fully prepared to fight for you in the courtroom.
Key Arizona Laws That Impact Your Case
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident involves more than just dealing with insurance companies. Arizona has specific laws that can directly influence your case and the compensation you receive. Understanding these rules is the first step toward protecting your rights and building a strong claim. While a lawyer will handle the legal complexities, being aware of these key points can help you make informed decisions from the very beginning.
The Deadline to File a Claim (Statute of Limitations)
In Arizona, you have a limited window of time to take legal action after a car accident. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is generally two years from the date of the incident. If you don’t file a lawsuit within this period, you could lose your right to seek compensation forever. While two years might sound like a long time, building a strong personal injury case involves gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, and preparing legal documents, all of which take time. It’s crucial to act quickly to ensure all your bases are covered and you don’t miss this critical deadline.
The “Comparative Negligence” Rule
Arizona uses a “pure comparative negligence” system to determine compensation when more than one person is at fault for an accident. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially responsible for the crash. However, your final settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 10% at fault for the accident and your total damages were $50,000, your award would be reduced by 10% ($5,000), leaving you with $45,000. Because of this rule, insurance companies often try to shift as much blame as possible onto you to lower their payout.
Arizona’s Minimum Insurance Laws
State law requires all Arizona drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance: $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. Unfortunately, these minimums are often not enough to cover the full cost of a serious car accident. If the at-fault driver only has the minimum coverage, or worse, no insurance at all, it can complicate your ability to get the compensation you need. An experienced attorney can help explore other options, such as your own underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage, to ensure your expenses are covered.
Rules for Reporting an Accident
What you do immediately after an accident matters. First, always seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries don’t show up right away. Be sure to keep thorough records of everything, including medical bills, repair estimates, and notes about how the injury has impacted your daily life. It’s also wise to be cautious about what you post on social media, as insurance companies can use your photos and comments against you. Following these simple rules helps create a clear and credible record, which is essential for proving your case and securing a fair settlement.
Your First Steps After a Car Accident in Arizona
The moments after a car accident are chaotic and stressful. It’s hard to think clearly, but the actions you take right away can significantly impact your health and your ability to recover compensation later. Knowing what to do can protect you and strengthen your potential claim. Here are the five essential steps to take immediately following a crash in Arizona.
Get Medical Help Immediately
Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some serious injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms right away. Seeking immediate medical attention ensures you get the care you need and creates an official record of your injuries. This documentation is vital for linking your physical harm directly to the accident. Keep detailed records of everything, including doctor’s visits, medical bills, and any time you miss from work. An experienced attorney can use these records to build a strong personal injury case and fight for the compensation you deserve for your recovery. It’s also wise to limit what you post on social media, as insurance companies can use your posts against you.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
If you are physically able, start gathering evidence at the scene. Use your phone to take as many photos and videos as you can from different angles. Capture the damage to all vehicles involved, skid marks on the road, traffic signals, and any relevant road signs. It’s also helpful to photograph the weather conditions and the surrounding area. If you have visible injuries, document those as well. This visual evidence can be incredibly powerful in showing what happened and who was at fault. A detailed record of the scene helps your lawyer reconstruct the events of the car accident and counter any inaccurate claims from the other party or their insurance company.
Collect Witness Information
While you’re documenting the scene, talk to anyone who saw the accident happen. Independent witnesses can provide an unbiased account of the events, which can be invaluable for your case. Politely ask for their name and phone number so your attorney can contact them later. You should also exchange information with the other driver. Get their full name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance policy information. Take a picture of their license and insurance card if you can. Avoid getting into arguments or discussing who was at fault. Just stick to gathering the essential facts. This information is crucial for filing your claim and ensuring the right parties are held responsible.
Notify Your Insurance Company
You should report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as you can. Most policies require you to provide prompt notification of a crash. When you call, stick to the basic facts of what happened: the time, date, location, and the other parties involved. Do not guess about details or admit any fault, even if you think you might have been partially to blame. Simply provide a straightforward report. It’s important to distinguish this from speaking with the other driver’s insurance adjuster. You are not obligated to give them a recorded statement, and it’s best to wait until you’ve spoken with a lawyer before doing so.
Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer
Before you talk to insurance adjusters or accept any settlement offers, you should speak with an experienced car accident lawyer. Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for the lowest amount possible. An attorney will protect your rights and handle all communications with the insurance companies for you. They can help you understand the true value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Getting legal advice early on prevents you from making common mistakes that could weaken your case. A consultation allows you to get your questions answered and learn about your options, so you can make informed decisions. You can contact a lawyer to get the guidance you need right away.
Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Car Accident Claim
After a car accident, you’re dealing with a lot—shock, potential injuries, and the stress of a damaged vehicle. It’s a chaotic time, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. Unfortunately, this is also when a simple misstep can significantly impact your ability to get the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to resolve claims for as little as possible. Knowing what to avoid can protect your rights and strengthen your case from the very beginning. Let’s walk through some of the most common mistakes people make and how you can steer clear of them.
Accepting a Quick, Low Offer
It might feel like a relief when the other driver’s insurance company calls with a settlement offer just days after the crash. They can be very persuasive, promising fast cash to cover your immediate bills. However, these initial offers are almost always far less than what your claim is actually worth. They don’t account for future medical treatments, long-term lost wages, or the full extent of your pain and suffering. Accepting a quick payout means you forfeit your right to seek further compensation later. Before you even consider an offer, it’s wise to discuss your car accident with an attorney who can calculate the true value of your claim.
Giving a Recorded Statement Without Your Lawyer
An insurance adjuster may ask you to provide a recorded statement about the accident. This sounds routine, but it’s a tactic used to find reasons to deny or reduce your claim. They are trained to ask leading questions that can be twisted to make it seem like you were at fault or that your injuries aren’t severe. You are not legally obligated to give a recorded statement. You can, and should, politely decline until you have consulted with a lawyer. Having proper legal representation ensures that your words aren’t used against you and that your side of the story is presented accurately and carefully.
Forgetting to Gather Key Evidence
In the immediate aftermath of an accident, it can be hard to think clearly, but this is the most critical time to gather evidence. Skid marks fade, vehicles are towed away, and witnesses leave. If you are physically able, use your phone to take pictures and videos of everything: the damage to all vehicles, the position of the cars, traffic signs, weather conditions, and any visible injuries. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened. This on-the-scene evidence is incredibly powerful for establishing who was at fault and proving the facts of your case later on.
Delaying Medical Care
Your health should always be your top priority. Even if you feel fine after a crash, you should see a doctor right away. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding that may not show symptoms for hours or even days. Delaying medical treatment not only puts your well-being at risk, but it also gives the insurance company an opening to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident. Seeking immediate medical attention creates a direct, documented link between the crash and the injuries you sustained, which is essential for a successful claim.
Missing the Filing Deadline
Many people don’t realize there’s a time limit for taking legal action after a car accident. In Arizona, this is called the statute of limitations, and for most personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, the court will almost certainly refuse to hear your case, and you will lose your right to seek compensation forever. Two years might sound like a long time, but building a strong case takes time. It’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time, protecting your right to compensation.
Finding the Right Legal Support in Arizona
Choosing the right legal team after a car accident is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The firm you partner with can directly influence the outcome of your claim and your ability to recover financially and emotionally. To help you get started, here are a few reputable law firms in Arizona known for handling
AZ Law Now Injury Attorneys
At AZ Law Now, we believe that deep experience in both settling and litigating car accident cases is non-negotiable. Our team is built on a foundation of aggressive advocacy for people who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence. We focus on securing the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost income, and the impact on your quality of life. We take on the full responsibility of your case so you can focus on healing. Our goal is to achieve swift justice and ensure you have the resources to move forward with confidence.
Gallagher & Kennedy
A long-standing firm in Phoenix, Gallagher & Kennedy has been practicing for over 45 years. With a collective attorney experience of more than 275 years, they have built a strong reputation for managing complex and high-value car accident claims. Their extensive history in the Phoenix area makes them a well-known name in personal injury law. Their team is recognized for its ability to handle intricate legal challenges that can arise in serious accident cases, bringing decades of courtroom and negotiation experience to the table for their clients.
Hutzler Law
For many people, understanding the cost of legal help is a major concern. Hutzler Law addresses this by being transparent about their fee structure. They typically work on a contingency fee basis, with fees ranging from 33% to 40% of the final settlement or award. This amount covers their legal services, court costs, and the fees for any expert witnesses needed to build a strong case. This upfront approach to costs allows clients to understand the financial side of their claim from the very beginning, removing some of the uncertainty from the process.
The Husband & Wife Law Team
Specializing in car accident cases in the Phoenix area, The Husband & Wife Law Team has a track record of securing millions of dollars in settlements for their clients. They understand that taking the first step can be intimidating, which is why they offer free consultations to potential clients. This allows accident victims to discuss their situation with an experienced attorney and assess their legal options without any initial financial commitment. Their focus on car accident claims has helped them develop a strong reputation for achieving positive outcomes for those they represent.
Stone Rose Law
Setting realistic expectations is a key part of the legal process. Stone Rose Law helps clients understand the potential value of their claims by explaining how settlements are determined in Arizona. They note that settlement amounts can vary significantly, from a few thousand dollars for minor property damage to over a million for cases involving severe injuries or a wrongful death. By providing this context, they help clients get a clearer picture of what to expect as they pursue compensation for their damages and injuries.
Related Articles
- Best Car Wreck Attorney Guide | AZ Law Now Injury Attorneys
- Car Accident – AZ Law Now Injury Attorneys
- Estimate Settlement – AZ Law Now Injury Attorneys
- Find the Right Accident Attorney AZ: A Practical Guide – AZ Law Now Injury Attorneys
- Choosing the Best Car Wreck Attorney: Your Complete Guide – AZ Law Now Injury Attorneys
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I was partially at fault for the accident? This is a common worry, but in Arizona, you can still have a valid claim even if you share some of the responsibility. The state follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means your settlement is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. The key is to not let an insurance company unfairly assign you more blame than you deserve. An experienced attorney will work to protect you from this tactic and ensure the facts of the case are presented accurately to maximize your recovery.
Do I really need a lawyer if the accident seems minor? It’s a good idea to at least speak with one. What seems “minor” at first can become more complicated later. Some injuries don’t show symptoms for days, and what looks like simple vehicle damage can hide bigger mechanical problems. Insurance companies often try to settle these claims quickly for a low amount. A lawyer can help you understand the full, long-term value of your claim and ensure you aren’t leaving money on the table that you might need for future care.
How long will it take to resolve my car accident case? There isn’t a standard timeline, as every case is unique. A straightforward claim might settle in a few months, while a more complex case involving serious injuries or a dispute over fault could take a year or longer, especially if it goes to court. While we always work to resolve cases efficiently, our main priority is securing a fair outcome for you. A quick settlement is rarely the best settlement, and we will take the time necessary to build a strong case on your behalf.
What happens if the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough? This is a frustrating and unfortunately common situation. If the other driver is uninsured or their policy limits are too low to cover your damages, we would look at your own auto insurance policy. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) or Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage is designed for exactly this scenario. We can help you file a claim with your own insurer to cover the gap, handling the process to make sure you get the benefits you’ve been paying for.
Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance adjuster? It’s best to avoid giving a statement to the other party’s insurance company before you’ve spoken with a lawyer. Adjusters are trained to ask questions in a way that can get you to say something that hurts your claim. You can politely decline to give a recorded statement and tell them your attorney will be in touch. This allows your lawyer to handle all communications, protecting you from common pitfalls and ensuring your story is told correctly.